This week’s newsletter covers the closing chapter of the THCA flower legal loophole, concerns about profit-driven psychedelic legalization, CBD product mislabeling, cannabis’s antifungal potential, and a tribute to an unsung hero of botanical CBD.
Noteworthy Read
Is the Golden Era of THCA Flower Coming to an End? (MJBizDaily)
The booming market for THCA flower—i.e. cannabis before it has been cured or heated, which purveyors claim is legal according to the 2018 Farm Bill—is under increasing scrutiny as lawmakers and regulators move to tighten restrictions on intoxicating hemp products. As federal agencies and states consider redefining legal hemp or cracking down on THCA-rich flower, many operators fear a coming wave of enforcement that could abruptly end what has become a lucrative legal gray area.
More Noteworthy Reading
Cannabis Compound Could Protect Us From Deadly Fungal Disease (ScienceAlert)
Researchers have identified a compound found in cannabis that shows antifungal activity against Candida auris, a deadly and drug-resistant fungal pathogen. The findings could open new doors for cannabinoid-based therapies to combat difficult-to-treat fungal infections.
Most CBD Gummies Lack Accurate Labeling (NORML)
An analysis of commercially available CBD gummies found that a majority do not meet labeling standards, with significant discrepancies between labeled and actual cannabinoid content. The results highlight ongoing concerns about product quality and the need for stronger regulatory oversight.
The Downside of Medical-Focused Psychedelic Capitalism (Marijuana Moment)
This op-ed argues that the push for psychedelic medical treatments risks reinforcing elite profit structures while leaving non-clinical or indigenous uses criminalized and marginalized. Such a narrow and restrictive model could wind up perpetuating inequities under the guise of legitimacy.
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View more in Psychedelics
California Moves to Permanently Ban Hemp-Derived THC Products (Ganjapreneur)
California lawmakers are advancing legislation to permanently prohibit the sale of intoxicating hemp-derived THC products, extending the current temporary ban.
Survey: Cannabis Consumers More Likely to Exercise Than Eat Fast Food or Drink Alcohol (Ganjapreneur)
A recent survey found cannabis users tend to engage in more physical activity and make healthier lifestyle choices compared to non-users, challenging long-standing stereotypes.
New York Issues Cannabis Recall Over Pesticide Concerns (Ganjapreneur)
New York regulators issued a recall for certain cannabis products after detecting unauthorized pesticides.
USDA Clarifies Cannabis Food and Drinks Are Ineligible for SNAP (Ganjapreneur)
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has reaffirmed that food and beverages containing cannabis—regardless of THC content—do not qualify for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Research Round-Up
Remembering Wade Laughter: The Unsung Hero of CBD (Project CBD, by Martin Lee)
Wade Laughter passed away recently after a long battle with cancer. Beloved within the cannabis community as the modest, softspoken horticulturist with a big heart and a great last name, Wade is one of the unsung heroes of botanical CBD that took root in northern California in the early 2010s.
A heartfelt thank you to all of the CBD brands whose generous support makes it possible for Project CBD to bring you the latest in plant medicine research and journalism every week — we are deeply grateful for your partnership.
